The recent thread on the loss of USA made goods and manufacturing got me thinking about the things I own that are made in the country I live in. Don't get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with products made in other countries--I consider my French-made Joris razor to be the finest piece of shaving gear I own--but there is a bit of pride in owning domestic goods. I feel a bit of nationalistic pride owning something made in the USA, and I'm sure those of you that reside in other countries feel the same. I have a few products that I am absolutely in love with that just happen to have domestic origins, so I thought I would post them up.
Allow me to introduce: the Best American Duffel, or BAD bag.
I was introduced to this bag about 15 years ago when I needed a durable duffel for a week long trip. I scoured the sporting goods stores but could not find anything that looked like it would hold up. I just happened to be looking through Outside magazine and saw a tiny ad for the BAD bag at the back. I called the number (this was before the Internet) and spoke with Malcolm, the owner. We talked a little about what I was looking for and he suggested a bag that was perfect for my needs. I had the bag for 15 years and after all that time the bag looked as good as new. Since then I have purchased a few more--and they even make a shaving kit bag now that I'm going to have to get.
If you have a USA made quality product (other than shave gear) that you absolutely love, please post it up. I will ask two things should you choose to participate: One, that you post a picture, and two, that commentary be left to what you like about the item, it's history, usefulness, etc. Absolutely no politics, criticism, or whining. Sorry, but had to say it.
Allow me to introduce: the Best American Duffel, or BAD bag.
I was introduced to this bag about 15 years ago when I needed a durable duffel for a week long trip. I scoured the sporting goods stores but could not find anything that looked like it would hold up. I just happened to be looking through Outside magazine and saw a tiny ad for the BAD bag at the back. I called the number (this was before the Internet) and spoke with Malcolm, the owner. We talked a little about what I was looking for and he suggested a bag that was perfect for my needs. I had the bag for 15 years and after all that time the bag looked as good as new. Since then I have purchased a few more--and they even make a shaving kit bag now that I'm going to have to get.
If you have a USA made quality product (other than shave gear) that you absolutely love, please post it up. I will ask two things should you choose to participate: One, that you post a picture, and two, that commentary be left to what you like about the item, it's history, usefulness, etc. Absolutely no politics, criticism, or whining. Sorry, but had to say it.
